Which of the following functions is not shared by both the root system and the shoot system of a plant?

Options

A. Absorb water
B. Transport water
C. Transport inorganic nutrients
D. Transport organic nutrients

Answer

To determine which function is not shared by both the root system and the shoot system of a plant, let's analyze the options provided:

1. **Absorb water**: The root system is primarily responsible for the absorption of water from the soil. The shoot system (which includes the stem and leaves) does not absorb water; instead, it relies on the roots to provide water.

2. **Transport water**: Both the root system and the shoot system are involved in the transport of water. The roots absorb water and then transport it upward through the stem to the leaves.

3. **Transport inorganic nutrients**: Similar to water, inorganic nutrients are absorbed by the roots and transported through the stem to the rest of the plant, including the leaves.

4. **Transport organic nutrients**: The shoot system is responsible for the production of organic nutrients (like sugars) through photosynthesis in the leaves, and these nutrients are then transported down to the roots. However, the roots also play a role in the transport of organic nutrients, particularly when they are involved in storage.

From this analysis, we can conclude that the function that is not shared by both the root system and the shoot system is:

**Absorb water**.

### Step-by-Step Solution:
1. Identify the functions of the root system.
- The root system absorbs water and minerals from the soil.

2. Identify the functions of the shoot system.
- The shoot system transports water and nutrients throughout the plant.

3. Compare the functions of both systems.
- The root system absorbs water, while the shoot system does not. Instead, it relies on the roots for water supply.

4. Analyze the options given in the question.
- Absorb water: Only the root system does this.
- Transport water: Both systems do this.
- Transport inorganic nutrients: Both systems do this.
- Transport organic nutrients: Both systems do this.

5. Conclude which function is not shared by both systems.
- The function that is not shared by both the root system and the shoot system is the absorption of water.

### Final Answer:
**Absorb water** is the function not shared by both the root system and the shoot system of a plant.